Director of commemorative coins at the Royal Mint Shane Bissett said: "The birth of the royal baby will be a joyous occasion not just for Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge but also for the whole nation.

"However, it will also be a special day for many mothers and fathers across the country as they too welcome the arrival of their new baby, hence why we wanted to extend this historical moment to them with a lucky silver penny."

The Royal Mint has also set up a form for people to register their interest in The Royal Baby and be informed about its "Royal Baby range".

Parents will have 60 days to register via Facebook for the coin from the birthdate of their child.

Prince William and Catherine's baby is due later this month, and photographers and TV crews from around the world have already stationed themselves outside the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in Paddington.